School hit by norovirus set to reopen

Gaynor Clarke

Pupils are expected to return to school tomorrow after an outbreak of a vomiting virus.

Children were turned away from Kingsfold Primary School in Penwortham on Friday after it was reported some children had suffered from the symptoms of norovirus.

Parents have been sent text messages by the school saying a deep clean is taking place this weekend so the school can reopen on Monday.

They have also been urged not to send their children back to lessons until they have been symptom-free for 48 hours.

On Friday, parents were given a letter from Public Health England about the situation.

The letter from Dr Nicola Schinaia from Public Health England stated: “We have identified that a number of children within school are off ill at the present time with symptoms of vomiting and/or diarrhoea and fever.

“The numbers are large than would normally be expected, so after discussion with the Cumbria and Lancashire Health Protection team we are writing to parents.

“The symptoms are suggestive of viral gastroenteritis (also known as norovirus) and it is known that high levels of viral illness are currently circulating in the community.”

The statement added: “If your child is affected with these symptoms, we would like to reiterate to parents, carers and staff members that affected people should remain off school until they have been symptom free for 48 hours. This advice will be strictly adhered to for the general health and well being of the school community.”